Driver stops to save freezing old man

Exhaust fog covers the Winnipeg skyline early Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2011 as a cold snap continues to grip the city with a bitterly cold high pressure system set to stay for a few days. (MARCEL CRETAIN/Winnipeg Sun)

A 32-year-old woman was driving near Ashburn Street and Sargent Avenue around 12:30 a.m. when she saw the man in distress.

She stopped the car to check on him, and it was apparent he was suffering from the effects of the extreme cold. Paramedics were called and the man was taken to hospital in unstable condition. His condition was later upgraded.

Police thanked the woman for her quick actions and assistance.

COLD-WEATHER TIPS

Clothing:

• Cover exposed skin and dress in layers. Stay away from cotton, especially as a base layer, as it holds moisture against your body and makes you colder.

• Don’t equate bigger with warmer — your body has a hard time warming up air inside spacious parkas or mitts.

• Make sure boots and gloves are dry before venturing out; moisture means cold. And wear a toque, since up to 40% of a person’s body heat is lost through the heads and hands.

• Waterproof outer jackets that don’t breathe sufficiently — like those made of Gore-Tex — and are unnecessary and ineffective in a dry winter climate.

Your vehicle:

• Plug your vehicle in at least three hours before you intend on driving it.

• If you are concerned about your battery, start your vehicle midday to see if you should place a road service call.

• Make sure all your fluid levels are adequate and are the right ones for the temperature.

• Check your block heater and inspect all cords to ensure they’re not damaged or frayed.

• Carry an emergency roadside kit in your car and have a charged cellphone, especially if you’re heading out of the city. The kit should include extra clothing, blankets, food, flares, chains, gloves, and first-aid supplies.

Your pets:

• Keep your pets inside, except if they’re being taken out for exercise or to relieve themselves.

• If your dog is a short-haired breed, consider buying them a coat or a sweater to wear in the winter.

• Just like the summer, don’t leave your animals unattended in a car during the winter. If it can’t be avoided, keep the car running to provide some level of warmth to them.

• Keep dogs on a leash in the winter, as they can lose their scent in a storm and become lost or disoriented.

Driver stops to save freezing old man

A 32-year-old woman was driving near Asburn Street and Sargent Avenue around 12:30 a.m. when she saw the man in distress.

She stopped the car to check on him, and it was apparent he was suffering from the effects of the extreme cold. Paramedics were called and the man was taken to hospital in unstable condition. His condition was later upgraded.